New York State Sen. Roxanne Persaud Receives National Distinguished Advocacy Award for Leading the Way on Critical Cancer Legislation

Washington D.C. – September 16, 2026 – New York State Sen. Roxanne Persaud received the National Distinguished Advocacy Award this week, the most prestigious award presented by the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN), in recognition of her significant contributions in the fight against cancer.

ACS CAN presents the annual award to select lawmakers who demonstrate outstanding leadership in the area of advancing cancer-related public policy. Sen. Persaud was instrumental in the 2023 passage of New York state’s groundbreaking biomarker testing coverage law, which expanded access to precision medicine tools critical for early cancer detection and targeted treatment. Earlier this year, she successfully fought a proposal that threatened access to biomarker testing for Medicaid enrollees, rallying senate colleagues, mobilizing support and steadfastly defending the needs of vulnerable patients. In addition, Sen. Persaud has been a leading voice and a legislative champion in expanding access to cancer screening, protecting patient privacy and preventing insurers from using patients’ genetic information when setting rates.

“Sen. Roxanne Persaud’s commitment to advancing cancer-related policy priorities, particularly in improving New Yorkers’ equitable access to biomarker testing, has had a profound and measurable impact on public health, not only in New York but as a model for the nation,” said Lisa Lacasse, president of ACS CAN. “ACS CAN is immensely grateful for Sen. Persaud’s work and looks forward to our continued partnership on behalf of all the patients, survivors and families touched by cancer in New York.”

Sen. Persaud regularly lifts up the importance of the state’s Cancer Services Program in disease prevention and detection.

“Sen. Roxanne Persaud fights for New Yorkers with the intensity needed to advance the fight against cancer and is one of the most effective and steadfast advocates for cancer patients that I have had the privilege to work with,” said Michael Davoli, ACS CAN New York Senior Government Relations Director. “From leading efforts to pass New York’s landmark biomarker testing coverage law to successfully defending Medicaid coverage of biomarker testing against proposed rollbacks, Sen. Persaud has consistently demonstrated extraordinary courage, determination and leadership even in the face of powerful opposition. Her commitment to advancing equitable cancer care has made a profound difference for countless New Yorkers and her refusal to compromise on patient outcomes makes it an honor to partner with her.”

The award was presented on Sept. 15 as part of the annual ACS CAN Leadership Summit and Lobby Day. Over 750 cancer patients, survivors and their loved ones met with their elected officials to urge them to prioritize cancer research and prevention programs, along with other proven cancer-fighting policies, highlighting the real-life impact these investments have on patients, families and communities nationwide.

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About ACS CAN

The American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN) advocates for evidence-based public policies to reduce the cancer burden for everyone. We engage our volunteers across the country to make their voices heard by policymakers at every level of government. We believe everyone should have a fair and just opportunity to prevent, detect, treat, and survive cancer. Since 2001, as the American Cancer Society’s nonprofit, nonpartisan advocacy affiliate, ACS CAN has successfully advocated for billions of dollars in cancer research funding, expanded access to quality affordable health care, and advanced proven tobacco control measures. We stand with our volunteers, working to make cancer a top priority for policymakers in cities, states and our nation’s capital. Join the fight by visiting www.fightcancer.org.